Carrickfergus Castle

About

Get ready to step back in time at Carrickfergus Castle, an incredible Norman castle nestled in the charming seaside town of Carrickfergus, County Antrim, right on the shores of Belfast Lough. This place isn't just old—it's legendary! You'll find this gem right at the starting point of Northern Ireland's Causeway Coastal Route, offering stunning views and a rich history. 

Unlike many ancient castles, Carrickfergus Castle is still standing tall and proud. It’s been through a lot: sieges by the Scots, Irish, English, and even the French, and it served a key military role until 1928. But despite all that, it’s one of Ireland’s best-preserved medieval structures, and guess what?  You can visit it!

Carrickfergus Castle dates back to 1177, making it a true medieval marvel. For over 800 years, this castle has been a majestic presence on the Northern Irish landscape. Today, it’s home to fascinating historical exhibits and a collection of cannons from the 17th to the 19th centuries.

Visitors can then make their way around the site on their own, climbing to the top of the keep, walking the walls and admiring the views over Belfast Lough between the crenels. 

Various rooms within the castle are open to the public, including the banquet hall, vaults and constable's quarters. Many of these feature life-like props and are often decorated seasonally. 

You should factor in a couple of hours to fully explore the castle and its various exhibitions. 

Tickets can only be purchased on arrival at the Visitor Information Centre located inside the entrance, there's no need to pre-book. 

Guided tours are available daily at no extra charge.

With the enhanced experiences throughout the year, kids have the chance to dress up in medieval and period costumes and enjoy playing with the props in the costume room where they can enact scenes from the castle's history, or challenge each other with a game of giant chess in the keep (adults will have just as much fun doing this!)

A sensory room has also been created to provide a calm, relaxing space for children with low light, sensory tent and more. Children of all ages will be fascinated with the many life-like exhibits, including a Knight in suit of armour, a miniature model of the entire castle and lots of other characters throughout the castle!

In times of extreme weather conditions the site may be closed to ensure health and safety of staff and visitors. If in doubt please contact the castle at the number provided to check if normal opening hours can be facilitated before travelling to the site. 

The Carrickfergus Visitor Information Centre is located within the castle where local national visitor information can be found as well as a range of local crafts and castle memorabilia. There is a wide selection of books on the history of the area as well as childrens's books and local recipe books.